Adam Spry's easy delivery disguises some sharp barbs. And the George Harrison-meets-Laurel Canyon vibe of his music is deceptively simple. Like the best indie rock songs, a lot of work went into making this breezy set.

Adam Spry Slightly Off Kilter (self-released)

The key is hiding the effort. Spry's voice has an appealing timbre, and the lead guitar licks that seem to pop up out of nowhere are entrancing. Even on a raucous number like "Rotten Mausoleum," the overall effect is closer to hypnotic than rousing.

Yes, you've heard this sort of thing before. Robyn Hitchcock did wonders with these bones for ages, and as the whole americana thing has trended electric many artists have rediscovered polished 80s alternapop. But few have leaned into this sound so hard, and even fewer have had the chops to create a set this alluring.

A fabulous restatement of the form. Smog makes the sunsets even more intense, and Spry has a real ear for finding meaning as the lights go dim. Spry is from Oakland, not L.A., but he's Cali all the way. Settle in and be enveloped.

Jon Worley